We spent two more relaxing weeks in Hoi An and as the weeks passed we did less and less. The kids enjoyed having their own rooms and Dev took advantage of having a TV.
Still, we took regular scooter rides in the rice fields and around town, and tested out various spots on the beach to find our favorite. Mira even convinced the parents to swim far out in the South China Sea in our clothes. Also, Mira was the lead designer for a mosaic table, and we finally indulged in various spa treatments. Another highlight was going into the ancient town with our friends one night for the monthly full moon festival where we took a boat ride and released candle lanterns on the river while making a wish.
We also found a local Chabad (who knew?) where we were able to buy challah for Shabbat and then matzoh when it was time for Passover. We did our very best effort at a Passover Seder with new friends. Imagine cau lao instead of matzoh ball soup and wasabi instead of horseradish. We made it work and the Seder and its story of collective liberation and resistance against tyranny resonated even more deeply this year. Though I feel like I’ve been saying that every year for a while now.
Without the rest of the family, I took a walking tour with some other moms which was lovely — both for the company and for getting to see and learn a bit more about Hoi An. On the flip side, the whole family went to the nearest city and checked out the mall where the kids won a stuffed animal in one of those scam grab games. I might have been just as excited as they were. Afterwards we tried to go see a USA rated PG-13 movie and they wouldn’t let the kids in; you had to be 16 and above even with parental permission. I’m not sure what that says about what we expose our kids to in the US but after getting rejected by the manager, we gave up and went bowling.
For our final hurrah, we took a really long and steep cable car ride up to the Golden Bridge with huge hands holding it up. There was also a small amusement park where we tried every 3D and 4D movie and rode surprisingly scary alpine coasters down the hill. Oh, and Dennis made sure to get one more avocado and coconut ice cream!
Next up is Hanoi and a 2-night cruise in Bai Tu Long Bay.
This Is Not Brooklyn. 